13: Jodie Whittaker is the new Doctor

After the Wimbledon Men’s Final, BBC released a clip revealing the new Doctor in the form of Jodie Whittaker.

If you’re unfamiliar with that name, she recently played Beth Latimer in the hit series Broadchurch. Playing the mother of the child murdered in the first season, Whittaker was praised for her performance for the three seasons of the series.

Whittaker will succeed Peter Capaldi at the Christmas episode.

Whittaker told the BBC, “I’m beyond excited to begin this epic journey – with Chris and with every Whovian on this planet. It’s more than an honour to play the Doctor. It means remembering everyone I used to be, while stepping forward to embrace everything the Doctor stands for: hope. I can’t wait.”

Chris Chibnall, the new showrunner taking over Moffat’s tenure, revealed he’d always wanted a woman as the 13th Doctor.

He tells the BBC, “I always knew I wanted the 13th Doctor to be a woman and we’re thrilled to have secured our number one choice. Her audition for the Doctor simply blew us all away. Jodie is an in-demand, funny, inspiring, super-smart force of nature and will bring loads of wit, strength and warmth to the role. The 13th Doctor is on her way.”

In the clip, we see a figure wearing the 12th Doctor’s clothing and the figure unhoods themselves to reveal a blonde Whittakerv as she walks toward the TARDIS.

The casting news breaks barriers as there were some controversy in having a female Doctor. But, many fans, creatives, and cast were looking forward for a woman taking charge, including Capaldi.

Capaldi told the BBC, “Anyone who has seen Jodie Whittaker’s work will know that she is a wonderful actress of great individuality and charm.S he has above all the huge heart to play this most special part. She’s going to be a fantastic Doctor.”